Edward Wormley for Dunbar Gondola Sofa
Best mid-century statement piece for sophisticated, design-conscious living spaces.
Experience timeless elegance with the Edward Wormley for Dunbar Gondola Sofa, a mid-century masterpiece from the 1950s. This iconic piece features a striking mahogany frame, creating a sophisticated floating effect for its plush seat and backrest. The sofa is distinguished by its subtle curves, elegant tufting, and a classic tufted button back. Supported by tapered solid walnut legs and accented with newly fitted brass hardware, this restored sofa has been reupholstered in a luxurious off-white twill fabric by Holly Hunt, blending comfort and iconic American design.
$15000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 14431
Best Sofas
Price vs Category Average
+451%
Above average
Frame Material
Mahogany
/ Mahogany
Who it's for
- Quality-focused buyers prioritizing heirloom-grade construction and durability
- Serious collectors viewing furniture as a long-term financial asset
- Design lovers seeking a dramatic, architectural statement piece
Who should skip it
- Homeowners with limited space or unconventional room layouts
- Budget-conscious shoppers requiring affordable, off-the-shelf seating options
- Buyers wanting immediate use without expensive, specialized restoration work
Performance breakdown
Design Pedigree
An authentic mid-century masterpiece by a legendary American furniture designer.
Material Quality
Premium mahogany and walnut construction paired with high-end Holly Hunt textiles.
Restoration Integrity
Expertly refurbished to preserve historical character while ensuring modern structural reliability.
Visual Impact
The floating seat silhouette creates a dramatic focal point for any room.
Seating Comfort
Firm, supportive ergonomics typical of the era, optimized for formal living spaces.
Investment Value
A rare, collectible piece that consistently appreciates in the vintage furniture market.
Key Specs
Frame Material
Mahogany
Leg Material
Solid Walnut
Upholstery
Holly Hunt Twill
Hardware
Brass
Design Era
Circa 1961
Overall Dimensions
111" W x 31.25" D x 32.5" H
Seat Height
17 inches
Arm Height
26 inches
Features
- Iconic mid-century design by Edward Wormley
- Elegant tufted button back
- Solid walnut tapered legs
- Sophisticated floating seat and back effect
- Newly fitted brass hardware
- Professionally reupholstered in premium twill
- Mahogany frame construction
- Functional exposed bracket-back supports
What customers say
The Edward Wormley Gondola Sofa is celebrated for its iconic, sculptural design and exceptional build quality. Owners appreciate its role as a sophisticated centerpiece, with original Dunbar craftsmanship ensuring lasting durability and timeless elegance. This sofa is recognized as a significant design investment. Its enduring aesthetic appeal and collectible status validate its premium value, making it a highly desirable acquisition for discerning collectors who value both style and substance.
Know before you buy
This piece has been professionally restored. It features brand-new, high-quality Holly Hunt twill upholstery and updated brass hardware, while the original mahogany frame and walnut legs have been preserved to maintain the sofa's mid-century integrity.
The floating design creates a visual lightness without sacrificing structural integrity. The sofa provides a firm, supportive sit typical of mid-century modern design, making it ideal for formal living spaces or areas where you prefer a more upright, structured posture.
At over nine feet long, this sofa is a substantial statement piece. We recommend measuring your entryway, hallways, and the intended wall space to ensure it can be maneuvered into your home and that it doesn't overwhelm the scale of your room.
Holly Hunt twill is a premium, durable textile, but as an off-white fabric, it is best suited for low-to-moderate traffic areas. To maintain its pristine appearance, we recommend professional cleaning and being mindful of potential color transfer from clothing.
The tufted back is designed to hold its shape well over time. To keep it looking its best, simply fluff the cushions occasionally and ensure the buttons remain secure; the tufting helps prevent the fabric from sagging or bunching with regular use.
The tapered walnut legs are structural components of the mahogany frame. While they may be removable by a professional, we recommend keeping them attached to ensure the stability and the intended aesthetic balance of the Gondola design.
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$15000